I was having a terrific lunch of Pesto Cream Spaghetti and Grilled Porkchops the other day when my cousin raved about her friend’s cupcakes. I asked her what was special about it. She said they were soft, creamy, rich and downright sinful. I said ok I’m sold, what do I order? She recommended the Red Velvet cupcakes by Johnny Cupcakes.

Johnny Cupcakes is owned by CCA-trained Davaoeno John Ramirez. For now, he takes orders from his home but will soon set up shop on Jacinto Extension where his new store is being built.

I was so excited when I received my box of cupcakes. As soon as I took a bite, I was in cupcake heaven (if there is one). The cupcakes were nice and moist and not too sweet. The frosting was really creamy too. I’ve tasted high-end cupcakes such as Sonja’s in Manila, but I found their cupcakes somewhat dry. Johnny’s, on the other hand, are super moist (yes I have to say it again), and I could tell he doesn’t scrimp on ingredients.

Because of that, his cupcakes are a little on the expensive side. He sells them by the box of 6 pieces at P500, about P80 per piece. But I assure you, it’s worth it! These are perfect as Christmas giveaways and holiday treats for your kids. Other flavors include Chocolate Torte, Vanilla Torte, Carrot Cake and Tiramisu.

Johnny Cupcakes
Price Range: P35/cupcake
Address: Door 2, Valencia Corporate Center, Arellano Street, Davao City
For Orders Call: 082.224.5060 or 0908.860.6925

Caffe Firenzo – A new homegrown cafe. Its second branch on Quirino Avenue is perfect for bloggers. Has lots of tables and corresponding outlets to plug into. I’m not a coffee drinker but I heard their Lavazza brews are good. I’m in love with their iced green teas that are available in a dozen flavors. Their cakes are nice but pretty standard — most come from Lachi’s and Sugar Munch.

Wifi: Free; Electricity: Free; Outlets: Everywhere

Damosa Gateway, Lanang, Davao City and Quirino Avenue, Davao City

Fagioli Coffee Club – A cafe chain originally from General Santos City, owned by the Rebosura sisters. Their store near Damosa is spacious but outlets could be scarce. The seats near the waterfall windows tend to bump into your laptop’s charger. But try their paninis. They’re the best in town. Try the Crabstick and Chicken variations. Oh, and check out their comfort room too. It’s an experience by itself.

Wifi: Free; Electricity: Free; Outlets: Scattered in corners

Address: J.P. Laurel Avenue, Lanang, Davao City and 1/F Casabella Building, Quirino Avenue, Davao City.

Kangaroo Coffee Company – If there was a prize for Best Service Crew in a Coffee Shop, Kangaroo’s deserves it. Pleasant and professional, they remember your name after a few visits and treat you like VIP. This joint offers a charming ambiance for blogging. Also, for P300, you get to try the rare but famous Civet Cat coffee (Cafe Balos). Personally, it freaks me out but patrons love its unique taste.

Wifi: Free; Electricity: Free; Outlets: Everywhere

Address: Tionko Street, Davao City

Coffee at Yellow Hauz – Located on Mapa Street, the owners transformed the ground floor of their home into a cozy coffee place, while maintaining the second floor as their residence. It has been a while since I’ve been there, but I do recall doing some of my blogging work there. Their iced teas and mini-pizzas are great.

Wifi: Free; Electricity: P50/3 hours; Outlets: Sparse

Address: Mapa Street corner Mabini Street, Davao City

Kopi Roti – An import from Singapore, Kopi Roti is one of my favorite places to both blog and hangout with friends. We love their Kopi Bun. Usually, I pair it with a strong cup of native hot chocolate. On some days, I sip on an Iced Tea Tarik and munch on a buttery French Toast. My only complaint is their rowdy baristas who border on being palengkera (people with poor manners).

Wifi: Free; Electricity: P30; Outlets: Scattered in corners

Address: Jacinto Extension, Davao City